Who We Are
The Arlington County Fair is one of the largest free events on the East Coast and has been providing quality entertainment for over 40 years. In recent years, attendance has reached over 84,000 as people come from Arlington, Northern Virginia, and the DC Metro region to enjoy competitive exhibits, midway rides and games, entertainment, vendors, and more. Each year Thomas Jefferson Community Center is transformed into a special place with something for everyone to see. Admission is free, there is a cost for some activities.
Mission
The Arlington County Fair is a non-profit volunteer-driven organization that embraces a diverse community by educating, entertaining, and showcasing the best of Arlington.
Vision
The Arlington County Fair is the premier community-wide event that effectively provides a range of educational and entertaining activities for people of all ages.
History of the Fair
Just minutes from the nation’s Capitol and the White House, the Arlington County Fair is an “urban fair” focused on educating, entertaining, and showcasing the best of Arlington.
The Arlington County Fair was incorporated in 1976 with the very first fair taking place the following summer in 1977. The first Arlington County Fair came about from the Arlington Community Garden Program and 4-H, whose members wanted a way to show what they were growing and making. That first Fair had no midway and no rides, but was focused on exhibits, competitions, educational displays and games for kids.
Arlington County Fair is the premier community-wide event that provides a range of educational and entertaining activities for people of all ages. Admission is free; specific programming including rides, games and other activities are fee-based.
Meet our Executive Team
Matt Richard
Chair
Ryan Blush
Secretary
Tara Spuhler McCabe
Vice Chair
Ilene Slatko
Treasurer
Samantha Armstrong
Parliamentarian
Interested In Joining The Board?
This type of volunteer is an individual who volunteers throughout the year, and during the week of the Fair to plan and implement all aspects of the event. This volunteer level is the highest level of responsibility and time commitment.
An information session was held recently to explain more about serving on the Board! A recording of the information session can be found here.
We are accepting applications NOW and will review and set up interviews on an ongoing basis through the spring of next year.
Going Green: Zero Waste at the Arlington County Fair
The Arlington County Fair is working toward the goal of becoming a zero waste event!
Learn more by going to our FAQ’s page.